One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to bring comfort to your dinner table, you’ve come to the right place! One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo is one of those magical recipes that feels fancy but comes together in no time. This dish has become a staple in my home because it’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this recipe always hits the mark.

What makes this recipe extra special is how all the ingredients meld together beautifully in just one pan. You get tender chicken, creamy orzo, and vibrant veggies all infused with the aromatic goodness of pesto. It’s a delightful blend that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans! Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: The combination of chicken, pesto, and orzo creates a rich, comforting dish that pleases everyone at the table.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish! It’s mild enough for kids yet flavorful enough for adults.
• Quick & Easy: From start to finish, this meal takes about 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this delicious One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo. You might already have most of these on hand!

For the Main Dish

• Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces.
• Orzo Pasta: 1 cup (about 8 ounces).
• Chicken Broth: 2 cups, low sodium.
• Pesto: ½ cup, store-bought or homemade basil pesto.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 pint, halved.
• Red Onion: ½ medium, thinly sliced.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Lemon: 1, juiced.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated, plus more for serving.
• Fresh Basil: ¼ cup, chopped (optional).
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional).

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo:

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta: Use another small pasta shape like farro or couscous if you don’t have orzo on hand.
• Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or even diced bell peppers for an extra kick.

How to Make One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by prepping all your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice up that red onion—this will add sweetness and depth. Mince the garlic to release its wonderful aroma and flavor. Having everything ready makes cooking much smoother!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Chicken

In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, warm up your olive oil. Add in your sliced red onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and slightly translucent. Then toss in the minced garlic (and red pepper flakes if you like some heat) and cook for another minute until fragrant—this step really builds up those layers of flavor.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Now it’s time to add those chicken pieces! Season them with salt and black pepper as you cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re browned on all sides but not fully cooked through yet. Don’t worry if they still look a bit pink inside; they’ll finish cooking with the orzo.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in your chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom—this adds even more flavor! Stir in the orzo pasta along with those lovely halved cherry tomatoes. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover tightly with a lid or foil and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the orzo is perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Stir in Pesto and Finish

Once your orzo is tender and has absorbed most of that delicious broth, remove it from heat and uncover it carefully. Stir in your pesto along with fresh lemon juice until everything is well mixed—it should be creamy and coated beautifully!

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Serve

Finally, stir in your grated Parmesan cheese! Taste it to see if it needs any extra salt or pepper. If you have fresh basil on hand, sprinkle some on top along with more Parmesan before serving.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo hot from the stove! It’s perfect on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. Enjoy every bite of this effortless weeknight dinner!

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

Cooking can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with these tips, you’ll be able to whip up this delightful dish effortlessly!

• Prep Ahead: Prepping your ingredients before you start cooking will streamline the process and make it much easier to manage. Having everything ready allows you to focus on enjoying the cooking experience.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes. Fresh produce brings vibrant flavors that elevate the dish and make it feel special.
• Monitor Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the orzo as it cooks; if it appears too dry, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water. This helps ensure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together.
• Taste Along the Way: Don’t forget to taste your dish as you cook! Adjusting seasoning at different stages helps you achieve a perfectly balanced flavor profile in your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances nutrition but also adds color and texture!

How to Serve One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo

Presenting your dish beautifully can turn an everyday meal into a special occasion! Here are some ideas for serving up your One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil over the top adds a burst of color and fresh flavor that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Extra Parmesan: Serve with additional grated Parmesan on the side for those who love a cheesy finish.
• Lemon Wedges: Placing lemon wedges on the plate gives diners a chance to squeeze fresh juice over their portion, enhancing brightness.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the orzo.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce, making it a comforting addition alongside your main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers add both color and nutrients, making your meal feel complete.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a crunchy texture and vibrant green color that pairs perfectly with the creamy orzo.

Remember, serving is just as important as cooking—take pride in presenting your delicious One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner without the fuss on busy weeknights. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover chicken and pesto orzo in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer the cooled orzo mixture into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• For best results, divide into single-serving portions for easy thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen orzo overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl covered with a damp paper towel.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

Can I use different types of pasta instead of orzo?

Absolutely! While orzo is a great choice for its texture, you can substitute other small pasta shapes like ditalini or mini shells. Just adjust the cooking time as needed according to the package instructions.

What is One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo?

One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo is a quick and flavorful dish combining tender chicken pieces, creamy orzo pasta, vibrant pesto, and juicy cherry tomatoes—all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with a plant-based protein such as chickpeas or tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this One Pan Chicken & Pesto Orzo! It’s not just easy to prepare; it’s also bursting with flavor that will surely delight your family. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!